Although the event happened in November, the footage was only shown by the TV network on 30 December.

Outsports.com suggests it might be a first, with ESPN commentators even referring to Woodward as his husband. Norton tied the knot in October 2011.

Speaking to the gay sports website, out bowler JW said: ‘It was nice to see the telecasters step into the 21st century and treat Scott’s homosexuality as just a matter of fact and not a sensation. The focus was upon how well he was playing.’